Ashton is 2!

Tomorrow is Ashton's 2nd birthday! I can't believe it! I can't help but reflect on what a difference these past 2 years have made on my life. I thought I knew who I was and what was important. I thought I knew what our family was going to look like. Nothing like an unexpected turn to throw all that out the window!
I think about what has taken place since her first birthday and all that I have learned. One year ago I had no idea what Turner syndrome was. I didn't know terms like sensory processing disorder, TEFRA, Early Intervention, or kareotype. I had no idea what a nightmare dealing with insurance companies could be. It seems in one year's time I have been fully immersed in the life of a special needs mom. There was no putting one toe in and testing the waters. I was literally pushed into the deep end and had to sink or swim. We are swimming. Sometimes it's a doggy paddle, but we keep moving forward.
I keep thinking it will get easier, but then some new information, new diagnosis, or new problem comes up and that raw pain comes right back. I wonder if that will ever end. I suspect not. Maybe I will just get used to it and it won't feel quite so unexpectedly sharp.
Although so much has gone wrong this year, more has gone right! Here are some of the things Ashton has accomplished since her first birthday... sitting up by herself, crawling, walking, running, dances, now kisses and hugs us on her own, talks non stop, can go up and down the stairs, eats more normal foods, no more baby food, uses sippy cups instead of bottles, sings. There are many many more!! Every one of these are worthy of a celebration, because she worked very hard to achieve each of them. I am so proud of my sweet girl! I love her so much. Love her spirit. There is a lot about her that isn't typical and her spirit is definitely abnormal! She exudes joy like no one I have ever seen. She has a smile and a giggle that melts my heart constantly. I know she is special, I am blessed, and I can't wait for this year's adventures!